Udimore

Beauchamps

Some 20 members of Udimore Wildlife Society visited the RSPB Dungeness Reserve last Saturday afternoon, in blustery but unexpectedly dry conditions, even sunny at times. There wasn’t much to be seen from the first two hides, as the nearby islands have been submerged by the currently very high water levels, but on the rest of our walk we saw or heard several species of warbler, had good views of nesting common terns and a pair of marsh harriers and briefly heard a bittern booming from the reed beds. We’re grateful to the warden for showing us round and telling us about recent developments, and her plans for the future.

I hope to report next week on Tuesday evening’s AGM of the St Mary’s Community Hall management committee. Meanwhile anyone who is thinking of applying for regular paid work cleaning the Hall, and would like to know more details should ring Linda Harland (01797 222410) as soon as possible.

As you may have seen on your way past, the King’s Head has now reopened. Spencer and Toby (yes, another one!) have a fully-stocked bar, including Harvey’s on draught, and are also serving a limited interim menu of pub food. Their full menu will be launched over the coming Bank Holiday Weekend, with a free buffet and (on Saturday May 25) live music as well. Do look in and help get them off to a good start. Their opening hours are noon till 10pm, seven days a week. For further information, and to make bookings, please ring 01424 882116.

Also on Saturday (May 25) at 7.30pm in St George’s Church, Brede there will be a Musical Evening with Gary Marriott and Duncan Reid. Tickets cost £8, which includes a buffet supper, and may be purchased from Marion (01424 751165).

Next day, Sunday May 26, from 2pm till 6pm Beauchamps garden will be open again for the National Gardens Scheme, after a two-year break. Despite the extremely late Spring, the garden should be looking its best, there will be irises and other plants propagated by Matty for sale, and teas served by the Friends of St Mary’s Church, to their usual high standard. Plenty of parking nearby, entry to the garden £4, children free.

The following Saturday (June 1) another event deserving support from you all, the annual Rockabilly Races, will take place at Parsonage Farm. Please note that there will be a few changes to the details published on page 33 of the May Parish Magazine (you might like to amend your copy accordingly).

The start of the five mile Rockabilly Race will be at 6pm. Spectators will be welcome from 4pm onwards, when there will be a barbecue, other refreshments and a licensed bar, open for the rest of the evening. Entry, and plenty of parking space, free. It should be another good party!